Mazda Koeru Concept Revealed, Could Preview CX-7 and CX-9

Mazda adds a new word to its Kodo design language.

“Koeru” means to “exceed” or “go beyond” in Japanese, and that’s what this Frankfurt show concept does. A sporty four-door hatchback, its fluid lines and general shape bear a strong resemblance to the CX-3, Mazda’s new compact crossover, but on a bigger scale—a scale strongly reminiscent of the dimensions of the current CX-5.

The Koeru and the CX-5 share the same 106.3-inch wheelbase, as does the Mazda 3 hatchback. The CX-5, however, was just refreshed for the 2016 model year, and a major makeover for the model is unlikely before 2018. The identical wheelbase is because Mazda used the CX-5 platform to create the concept.

However, the wheelbase is the only commonality. Although similar in size, the Koeru concept is longer (181.1 inches versus 178.7 for the CX-5), considerably wider (74.8 inches versus 72.4), and dramatically lower (the roof peaks at 59.1 inches versus 65.7). Mazda describes the concept as a crossover, but it’s not much taller than some large sedans.

What the concept adds up to is plenty of visual zoom-zoom and a certain amount of mystery. It’s a long way from some of Mazda’s wilder concepts from a few years ago, and thus appears much more likely for production—but as what? It’s too small to be plausible as an update for the three-row CX-9, which is the next Mazda crossover due for redesign and which will appear in November at the L.A. auto show. Instead, it may hint at a return of the CX-7, although its design cues no doubt will show up on the larger crossover, as well.

Mazda’s presentation was devoid of powertrain references, or any other hints, so for the time being all we can say about the addition of Koeru to the Kodo lexicon is that we love it when Mazda talks like this.

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